An Inspired, and Inspiring, Community

With 2013 almost at an end, I hope you can look back on a happy and successful year. As reported in this issue, the Colorado School of Mines community certainly has a lot to celebrate: After receiving a record number of applications, Mines welcomed its most academically accomplished class on record in August, research funding and private giving both broke records for the second year in a row, a major new residential and dining facility is under construction, and a new capital campaign has been launched, which includes ambitious plans for infrastructure development, and faculty and student support. Mines is rising on many fronts, and reading our Q&A with President Scoggins and Realizing a Vision will help outline these trends and the university’s strategic direction.

I also recommend the feature, A Laser’s Edge, which focuses on the remarkable work of Jeff Squier ’84, MS ’86. A physics professor at Mines who holds one of the original patents for Lasik surgery, Squier recently developed a new approach to laser surgery that is far more precise and safer than the technology currently in use. At the same time, he’s providing neuroscientists with 4D imagery of working brain cells, and is helping to develop microscopic diagnostic tools for medicine. It’s inspiring science led by an inspiring individual.

On the subject of inspiring individuals, the alumni association says farewell to Serena Stickney Bruzgo at the end of 2013. Since joining CSMAA in 2006, Serena’s service to the organization and the school has been tireless. With enthusiasm, intelligence and warmth, she’s expanded existing programs and developed new ones, grown CSMAA membership, helped launch an online community, and, in many creative ways, animated the organization’s presence in the global Mines community. Her perpetually positive outlook has inspired my work and that of my colleagues, particularly while serving as interim executive director during the last nine months, a role she stepped into only two months after returning from maternity leave. I know many share my heartfelt appreciation for her leadership and vision.

I’d also like to say thank you to Will Weiskopf ’13, who graduated this month, having worked for Mines for the last three years. Will has made valuable contributions to the magazine, particularly with regard to our electronic presence. His latest is a redesign of minesmagazine.com, check it out and let us know what you think. You can reach us at [email protected] or by leaving a comment on the website at the end of any of the stories you find there.

Wishing you restful and happy holidays.

Nick Sutcliffe
Editor and Director of Communications
Colorado School of Mines Alumni Association